After the US took an early 1-0 lead, France began dominating the game's possession, finally scoring an equalizer in the 55th minute. But Les Blues weren't able to further capitalize on what ended up being a 25-11 shots-on-goal advantage.

In the 78the minute, Wambach -- who was also the hero of the United States' improbable quarterfinal victory over Brazil -- headed in a corner for the lead.

A goal by Alex Morgan three minutes later left little doubt the US women would be returning to the World Cup finals for the first time since they won the tournament in 1999.

The U.S. will face either Japan or Sweden in Sunday’s championship game in Frankfurt, Germany.